Avoid These Common Traffic Violations in Alberta and Keep Your Driving Record Clean
If you do get a ticket and want to contest it, just reach out to us at Tickets – The traffic Ticket People – website edmontonticketfighter.ca
Driving in Alberta means following a set of traffic rules designed to keep you and others safe on the road. However, some traffic violations are more common than others, leading to demerit points, fines, and even potential license suspensions. Understanding these common infractions can help you avoid them and maintain a clean driving record. Here are the most frequent traffic violations in Alberta and what they mean for you:
- Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit is the most common traffic violation in Alberta. The fines and demerit points increase based on how far over the limit you’re going. For example, driving 1-15 km/h over the limit results in a fine and two demerit points, while going over 50 km/h above the limit could land you a six-point penalty and a hefty fine.
- Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a serious issue, especially with the rise of mobile phones and other electronic devices. In Alberta, using a handheld device while driving results in a fine and three demerit points. To stay safe and avoid penalties, make sure your attention remains on the road.
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs not only results in fines but also puts you and others at risk. This infraction carries three demerit points. Always approach intersections carefully, and obey all stop signs and traffic lights to avoid accidents and penalties.
- Careless or Reckless Driving
Careless driving can encompass a range of behaviors, from speeding to aggressive lane changes. Alberta treats this violation seriously, with a penalty of six demerit points. If you’re found guilty, you could face fines and potential court appearances, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Failing to Yield
Failing to yield to pedestrians or other vehicles with the right-of-way is another common infraction. This violation carries three to four demerit points, depending on the situation. Make sure to follow road signs and be courteous to other drivers and pedestrians.
- Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
Tailgating reduces reaction time and is a leading cause of rear-end collisions. In Alberta, tailgating carries a penalty of four demerit points. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially in adverse weather conditions.
How Demerit Points Work in Alberta
Each of these violations can add demerit points to your driving record, which can accumulate and lead to suspensions. For fully licensed drivers, accumulating 15 or more demerit points will result in a license suspension. For new drivers under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, the threshold is even lower, with a suspension triggered at just eight points.
If you’ve been cited for one of these violations, it may be worth considering your options to reduce or eliminate the associated penalties.
Want to protect your driving record? Contact Edmonton Ticket Fighter today to discuss how you can fight your traffic ticket and keep your record clean.
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